Interleukin 6
Also known as: B-Cell Stimulatory Factor 2; IL-6; Interferon-Beta 2
Description
Interleukin 6 is a type of Interleukin produced by Fibroblasts, TH2 Helper T-Cells, Macrophages and Cancer Cells.
Biological Function of Interleukin 6
Immune System
Interleukin 6 increases the synthesis and secretion of Antibodies (Immunoglobulins) by B-Lymphocytes.
Musculoskeletal System
Interleukin 6 stimulates the production of Osteoclasts (Bone "dissolving" cells): [1]
Caution: excessive production of Osteoclasts increases the risk of Osteoporosis.
Potentially Toxic Effects of Interleukin 6
Cardiovascular System
Elevated Interleukin 6 levels may increase the risk of Atherosclerosis (by stimulating the proliferation of the Endothelium of Blood Vessels, by increasing the permeability of the lining of Blood Vessels and by stimulating the production of C-Reactive Protein. [2]
Elevated Interleukin 6 levels are a biomarker for future Heart Attack. [3]
Elevated Interleukin 6 levels may increase the risk of Hypertension. [4]
Digestive System
Crohn’s Disease patients generally have elevated Interleukin 6 levels.
Hormones
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 may cause the production and release of excessive quantities of Cortisol.
Immune System
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 has been implicated in Autoimmune Diseases. [5]
Elevated Interleukin 6 levels may increase the risk of Colon Cancer. [6]
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 may cause Inflammation (throughout the body including the Joints and the Brain). [7]
Elevated IL-6 levels may increase the risk of Multiple Myeloma. [8]
Elevated IL-6 levels may be a biomarker for Prostate Cancer. [9]
Musculoskeletal System
Elevated Interleukin 6 levels may cause Cachexia. [10]
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 is implicated in Osteoporosis (due to its ability to stimulate the excessive production of Osteoclasts which are implicated in Osteoporosis). [11]
Elevated Interleukin 6 levels may occur during the development and progression of Rheumatoid Arthritis. [12]
Nervous System
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 may cause Aggressiveness. [13]
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 may be involved in the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease (Alzheimer’s Disease patients have highly elevated levels of Interleukin 6 in their Brains). [14]
Excessive production of Interleukin 6 may increase severity of Depression. [15]
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- Interleukin 6 may Increase the Production of these Toxic Substances
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